Ontario's premier and two top ministers make guest appearance at the CICC summit
In what is seen as a strong indicator of the Province's commitment to the convenience industry, Premier Doug Ford, along with Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy and Associate Minister of Transportation Stan Cho, joined attendees at the Convenience Industry Council of Canada Summit in Toronto.
Ford and Cho spoke to the audience about being business leaders and how much they value the convenience industry, for both its role in the economy, but also the opportunities it provides to new Canadians and entrepreneurs.
Cho shared his family's story and spoke about his father coming to Canada, at first working in a c-store and eventually employing 200 people "That to me is the Canadian dream."
The premier said rarely a day goes by when he doesn't visit a convenience store: "Convenience stores are the heart of every neighbourhood in every community."
Ford also touched on the push to allow c-stores across the province to sell beverage alcohol, emphasizing the approach will involve consultations with multiple stakeholders: "The CICC and the industry it serves will be a key partner in the conversation."
Industry leaders from across the country gathered at the Omni King Edward Hotel in Toronto September 27-29, 2022 to discuss everything from evolving consumer demographics to DEI and labour challenges, as well future opportunities to ensure the strength and longevity of the industry.
In addition to Ford, the event featured a number of high-profile industry players, including a Q&A with Alain Bouchard, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Alimentation Couche-Tard, an engaging panel discussion with leaders from Circle K, 7-Eleven Canada and Parkland, as well as a gala celebration honouring individuals and innovation.
Excellence Awards winners
Frontline Hero Retailer Award: Randall Horne, Parkland, Pioneer On the Run
Frontline Hero Distributor Award: Bob Gravonic, Wallace & Carey
Outstanding Partner of the Year Award: PepsiCo
Outstanding Industry Leader of the Year Award: Stéphane Trudel, former CICC Board Member and former SVP of operations for Alimentations Couche-Tard
Robert and Jacques Beaudry Lifetime Achievement Award: Jay Seagrove, formerly with Nestlé Canada
Innovation Awards winners
Snacks (Savoury): Twigz Craft Pretzels Fire Roasted Jalapeño, Twigz
Snacks (Sweet): Kind Dipped Clusters in Dark Chocolate Nuts & Berries, Kind Snacks
Confectionery: Dare Realfruit Sours Citrus Burst, Dare Foods Ltd.
Chocolate: Cadbury Caramilk Salted, Mondelez International
General Merchandise: SMART Tri-Tip Cable, SRP companies
Beverages (Regular): Sparkling Ice Peach-Nectarine, Lassonde
Beverages (Energy/Caffeinated): Coca-Cola with Coffee, Vanilla, Coca-Cola Ltd.